Oregon Historical County Records Guide

Wasco County Records Inventory

Coroner and Inquest Records

1854-1964

Series records the results of the examination of a corpse by
the county coroner at the request of the county sheriff. It also
documents the proceedings and results of inquests ordered by the
district attorney. Reports include date filed; name, age, sex,
race, parentage, and birthplace of deceased; date, place, and time
of death; names of undertaker and coroner; testimony; and costs.
Early reports were narrative accounts detailing the cause of
death. After 1900, a standardized form was used for reporting
results. Inquest transcripts include coroner and juror names,
signatures, and actions; witness names; testimony; and verdict.
Coroner and inquest records have been inventoried through
1965.